The present paper cosists of two parts. In the first part, the Sanskrit stotra literature is briefly characterised. Part two contains an analysis of a hymn of praise addressed to the god Brahmā (Kum. II 1–16). This hymn contains elements characteristic of laudatory hymns, that is, paying homage to the deity (namas), mentioning his name at the beginning, emphasising his nature, function and extraordinary achievements. This is the purpose of the epithets used to describe Brahmā. There is no request or prayer addressed to the deity in the hymn, because the stotra in question is a form of worship of the god with a philosophical background.